Market-Gateway Tower- A residential tower San Jose deserves

When CORE Developers and Republic Urban Properties released their preliminary design renderings last week, it was a refreshing relief. The 24-story articulated tower design is unique and intriguing, something different for downtown. Where the 360 Residences failed, this tower can be an extension of the SoFA arts district, accentuating the district with an interesting building design, and welcoming residents and visitors to downtown, as the Market-Gateway Tower (as it is currently called) name suggests.

It is modern tower designs like this one, that have been missing in San Jose for a decade. There are buildings currently in different phases of construction, that are using decade old designs, so seeing this bold, modern proposal, brings some optimism that changes in design excellence are occurring. A progressive shift in the design mindset of San Jose.

Rendering of Gateway Tower seen from Market Street

San Jose deserves more buildings that can be uniquely San Jose. San Joseans can be proud of this building design, it stands out. This is a building design we will looked to in the future as a turning point in the city’s aesthetic urban landscape.

Admittedly, it is only a preliminary design. That means it will go through design reviews from various city departments and neighborhood groups. But the design has come in with a strong statement and personality. One that should be embraced, one that should be built.